As the fifth and final season of the HBO Max series ‘Hacks’ garners a record-breaking 24 Emmy nominations, including a nod for Jean Smart as best actress in a comedy series, the actress is basking in the glory of her beloved character, Deborah Vance.

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Smart’s portrayal of the iconic comedian, who has spent her life making people laugh, has earned her widespread critical acclaim and a devoted fan base. In an exclusive interview, Smart opened up about her experience playing Deborah, the intricacies of the character, and the significance of the show’s themes.

Source: media.npr.org
‘It’s Just So Fun to Make People Laugh’
Smart’s infectious enthusiasm for comedy is evident as she discusses the joys of playing a character who has dedicated her life to making people laugh. ‘It’s just so fun to make people laugh,’ Smart exclaims, her eyes sparkling with mirth. ‘There’s nothing quite like the feeling of knowing you’ve made someone’s day a little brighter.’
As the show’s protagonist, Deborah Vance, Smart has had the opportunity to explore the complexities of a life spent in the spotlight. ‘Deborah is a very confident, very strong woman, but she’s also deeply vulnerable,’ Smart notes. ‘She’s a master of her craft, but she’s also a master of hiding her true feelings.’
The Power of Comedy
Throughout the series, ‘Hacks’ has tackled tough topics like aging, identity, and the challenges of the entertainment industry. Smart believes that comedy has the power to break down barriers and bring people together. ‘Comedy is a universal language,’ she says. ‘It can make us laugh, but it can also make us think.’
Smart’s own experiences in the industry have given her a unique perspective on the challenges faced by women in comedy. ‘There are still so many obstacles to overcome,’ she acknowledges. ‘But I think ‘Hacks’ shows that, even in the face of adversity, women can come together, support each other, and create something truly special.’
A Legacy of Laughter
As the curtain closes on ‘Hacks,’ Smart is proud of the legacy she and the show’s creators have left behind. ‘I hope that ‘Hacks’ will be remembered as a show that made people laugh, but also made them think,’ she says. ‘I hope that it will be remembered as a show that celebrated the power of women in comedy and the importance of laughter in our lives.’
With 24 Emmy nominations under its belt, ‘Hacks’ is poised to leave a lasting impact on the world of comedy. As Jean Smart takes her final bow as Deborah Vance, fans can rest assured that the show will continue to make people laugh and inspire long after the credits roll.
Smart’s dedication to her craft and her commitment to using her platform to uplift and entertain have earned her a place in the hearts of audiences everywhere. As she looks to the future, one thing is clear: Jean Smart will continue to make people laugh, and the world will be a brighter, wiser, and more wonderful place for it.